The bill amends the Michigan Vehicle Code, specifically section 625, to strengthen regulations against operating a vehicle while intoxicated. It prohibits individuals from driving under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or other intoxicating substances, regardless of their licensing status. The bill sets a blood alcohol content threshold of 0.08 grams per 100 milliliters of blood, with a future increase to 0.10 grams contingent upon certification by the state treasurer. It also outlines penalties for causing death or serious impairment while driving under the influence, including felony charges with defined minimum and maximum imprisonment terms and fines. Additionally, it introduces stricter regulations for individuals under 21, prohibiting any bodily alcohol content and imposing harsher penalties for violations involving minors.

Moreover, the bill revises laws related to community service and prosecution for operating a vehicle under the influence. It mandates that individuals sentenced to community service do so without compensation and reimburse the state or local government for supervision costs. Prosecutors seeking enhanced sentences based on prior convictions must include those convictions in the court complaint, and various forms of documentation can be used to prove prior convictions. The bill also requires juries to return special verdicts on whether a defendant was under the influence or visibly impaired, with courts obligated to report findings to the secretary of state and state police. It clarifies definitions related to intoxicating substances and prior convictions and includes provisions for probation conditions, such as the installation of ignition interlock devices for certain offenders. The amendments will take effect 90 days after the bill is enacted.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 257.625